VISION WEST West Baton Rouge Parish - Community, Growth, Possibilities A quarterly publication for West Baton Rouge residents by your public agencies • April, 2014 Calendar Parish supports BUMP, but asks residents help with DOTD West Baton Rouge Parish Highway from the bridge in and federal roadways so we they have to sit in backed-up of Events President Riley “PeeWee” Baton Rouge an interstate have no control,” Berthelot traffic.” The phone numbers for Berthelot is continuing to push style road without red lights. said. “DOTD tells us that they DOTD are 1-877-452-3683 or for the La. 415 connector The project is estimated to cost have not received complaints, customer service at 225-379- May 1 – June 1- route to relieve traffic at the $700 million to $1 billion. so I am urging residents to 1273. Lincoln: The Constitution Intracoastal Bridge, and has “We are supporting any call DOTD to complain when and the Civil War, Museum also gained support from the project that will reduce the traffic congestion,” Berthelot WBR Parish Council to commit FRUSTRATED WITH TRAFFIC May 8 – Three Frog $100,000 to the proposed said. The La. Hwy. 415 Night musical theater at BUMP project to relieve traffic connector road would cost CONGESTION ON LA. HWY. 1 AT THE Library, 9 a.m. congestion. approximately $130 million. INTRACOASTAL AND BRIDGE? The Baton Rouge Urban Berthelot said he has continued LET THE LA. DEPARTMENT OF May 10 - July 20: Renewal and Mobility Plan to push for the road with La. A Louisianian’s Grand (BUMP), would create a four- Department of Transportation TRANSPORTATION AND DEVELOPMENT Tour in the Belle Époque, lane connector road from and Development officials, and KNOW! Museum Interstate 10 near La. 415 also made a presentation to CALL THEM: 1-877-452-3683 or 225-379-1273 in West Baton Rouge to the state legislators in April. May 22 – last day of old Bridge, “We are getting all the or e-mail [email protected] school for WBR public and make a portion of Airline complaints, but these are state schools June 4 - Noon workshop and evening RECREATION UPDATE workshop on perfume, Museum SPLASH PADS OPEN MAY 1 The parish’s splash pads will open on May 1 unless inclement or June 7 - Aug. 31: cool weather delays the opening. This is the second summer the four Jim Bowie and Family in splash pads at parks throughout the parish will be open. The $750,000 exhibit, Museum cost of the splash pads was funded by the WBR recreation tax. The pads are located at Myhand Park in Addis, Alexander Park in Brusly, June 25 - Lecture and Port Allen Community Center and Erwinville Park. The parks are book signing with author open daily from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. for children 12 years and younger. Sam Irwin with his book Parental supervision and proper attire are required at the splash parks. Louisiana Crawfish, noon, The water systems at each of the parks are dormant until they are Museum activated by pressing the black activation plates found on the splash pads with a bare hand or foot. July 4 - 4th Fest SWIMMING POOL OPENS MAY 23 The parish swimming pool at the Williams and Lee Park will open July 13, 2:30-5pm on May 23, with the YMCA providing operations and lifeguards. It is Sunday, Bastille Day, open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. until noon for swimming Museum. lessons and groups, and from 1 p.m. until 6 p.m. for the public. The pool is closed on Sundays, but is available for private parties. Anyone (continued on Page 2)

GOVERNMENT MEETINGS

WBR PARISH COUNCIL - Meets 2nd & 4th TOWN OF ADDIS - Meets on 1st Wednesday of Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Parish each month at 6 p.m. at Addis Town Hall. Phone: 225- Council Building, 225-383-4755, www.wbrcouncil.org 687-4844, www.addisla.org

WBR PARISH SCHOOL BOARD - Com- CITY OF PORT ALLEN - Committee meetings mittee meetings on 2nd Tuesday of each month at 5 on 1st Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. Town p.m. School Board meetings on 3rd Wednesday of each council meetings on 2nd Wednesday of each month at month at 5 p.m. at the School Board office, 225-343- 5:30 p.m., 225-346-5670, www.portallen.org

8309, www.wbrschools.net

TOWN OF BRUSLY - Committee meetings on Local Patron Postal

WBR PLANNING & ZONING 1st Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Town Council #18 Permit COMMISSION - Meets on the 1st & 3rd Tuesdays meetings on 2nd Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m., LA Allen, Port

of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Council meeting room 225-749-2909, www.bruslyla.com PAID

U.S. Postage U.S. in the Parish Council Building. STD PRSRT West Baton Rouge Museum Teachers Institute opens registration at Museum The West Baton Rouge Museum has opened materials, CLU credits certificate and $100 stipend upon registration for the 2014 Teachers Institute. The three- completion of the institute. Lunch is provided daily and day summer program is designed for in-service teachers transportation to all the field trips is provided. and will run July 8, 9, and 10. The West Baton Rouge School Board is co-sponsor The theme this year is History, The Arts, and of this program. Agriculture: Cultivating Lessons for the Classroom The Teachers Institute is limited to 25 participants. using Social Studies and STEM Learning. Teachers To register visit www.westbatonrougemuseum.com enjoy daily lectures and presentations from historians and print out the pdf registration form and fax back to and education specialists, field trips to museums and Jeannie Luckett, fax (225) 336-2448, or call Luckett cultural centers, get a package of classroom resource (225) 336-2422 x14 for a registration form. Museum hosts Coming events at the WBR Museum

National History May 10 - July 6pm: About Perfume with the Bourbon Jim and his brothers and sisters made 20: A Louisianian’s French Parfum Company. Participants a name for themselves, including his Day Regional Grand Tour in the will learn how to hand mix samples sister, Mary, who settled in West Baton Belle Époque. The of lovely scents and listen to a brief Rouge. Competition exhibit illustrates history of perfumery. Presenting will June 26, 6pm: Painting workshop The West Baton Rouge Museum the story of young be experts from the Bourbon French “Champagne and Claude.” An evening was chosen by the National World War Aurelie Levert Parfum company, a business that has informal class at the museum led by II Museum to host the Greater Baton of St. Delphine been in operation since around 1843, professional artist and instructor Jenn Rouge Regional competition of National Plantation in and still operates by following traditional Prochaska. Participants will enjoy History Day for a third year in a row on West Baton Rouge who set out on an methods. Space is limited. Pre- champagne punch while they learn March 29. adventure in 1900 when she traveled registration is required by calling (225) painting techniques inspired by Claude The 350 middle and high school Europe for three months. She spent 336-2422 x15. Monet. Participants will leave with their students in the competition selected most of her time in Paris taking in the June 25, noon: Lecture and book own original paintings. topics that address the theme “Rights sights and sounds of the Exposition signing with award winning author, Sam July 17, noon lecture, Katie and Responsibilities in History.” Universelle—the World’s Fair of 1900. Irwin with his latest book, Louisiana Pfohl, Art historian and curator at They produced one of five different This trip was taken during the height Crawfish: A Succulent History of the the LSU Museum of Art, will present projects including exhibits, research of the Belle Époque (1871-1914), a Cajun Crustacean. Delicious samples of “Impressionism in Paris around 1900.” papers, performances, web sites, or “beautiful era.” crawfish recipes will be shared. July 13, 2:30-5pm Sunday, Bastille documentaries that were all displayed in May 29, noon Lunchtime Lecture, June 7 - Aug. 31: Carving Their Day at the West Baton Rouge Museum. the museum and evaluated by judges. NOMA Curator Mel Buchanan, Gorham Niche: The Bowie Family in Louisiana. Enjoy an afternoon immersed in French Students competed against their peers Silver and Martele Silver. An exhibit illustrates the story about culture. Activities include French food, for scholarships and cash prizes as June 4, Two opportunities to how James “Jim” Bowie’s parents music, art demonstrations, and hands- they advanced from the regional level to choose from: A lunchtime workshop moved their family to colonial Louisiana on activities. Bastille Day celebration nationals. at noon or an Evening Workshop at around 1802. It was in Louisiana that will be a fun day for the whole family.

West Baton Rouge Library RECREATION UPDATE (continued from Page 1) interested in renting it on a Sunday should call the WBR Parks and Recreation Department at 225-336-2423. The building adjacent to the pool has also been Library hosts “A Three Frog Night,” renovated and can be rented for private parties and events. The pool operation has new blog for teens and renovation are funded by the WBR recreation tax. REGISTER FOR SUMMER CAMPS The stage is up and the lights are set at the West Baton Rouge Parish Library The West Baton Rouge Parks & Recreation Department will again hold for nine performances of “Three Frog Night,” an original puppet theater musical, May summer camp sessions throughout the parish for kids age 5 to 12. The camps 5 - 8. The army of frogs, and their cousin, toad, have been rehearsing their parts and include various activities, such as games, crafts and fun field trips. Six sessions their songs for several months with help from the library’s experienced crew of mostly will be offered at three locations across the parish: volunteer puppeteers. As you would expect of frogs, they do quite a bit of croakin’, • Port Allen – at the West Baton Rouge Community Center, June 3-5 and jumpin’, and leapin’ in the air, but they also have some great tales to tell and when they June 10-12 sing, they sound really swell. • Addis – at the Addis Community Center, June 17-19 and June 24-26 The performances are completely booked by kindergarten, first and second grade • Erwinville – at the Erwinville Community Center, July 8-10 and July 15-17 classes from area schools, but a few seats in the audience are left for the Thursday, The fee for each weekly camp, including lunch, is $10. Pre-registration May 8, 9:00 a.m. performance. Call 342-7920, Ext. 227 to reserve a free seat. The is required, and only checks or money orders will be accepted. For more 35-minute show is appropriate for children ages 5 through 8 years. information or to register, please contact the WBR Parks & Recreation Department at 225-336-2423. NEW BLOG FOR TEENS... Kimberly Mansur, who joined the library staff in January, has created a new blog for teens in which she spotlights the latest TENNIS CAMPS “good reads” in young adult literature, as well as events happening for teens at the Tennis camps are being offered from 3:30 until 5 p.m. at the tennis complex th library. Her “good reads” comments are quirky, interesting, and fun to read. Take a on 6 Street in Port Allen. For more information call the Recreation Department look at the “Teen Zone” by going online to http://wbrplibrary.wordpress.com/ at 225-336-2434.

ABOUT THIS is published quarterly as a cooperative endeavor of West Baton Rouge Parish government agencies to educate residents about projects, activities and services in the parish. It is produced by Peacock PUBLICATION: Communications, LLC. Comments can be sent to: [email protected], or call 225-929-9661.

Page 2 | Vision WEST | April, 2014 West Baton Rouge Parish Government

LEADERS AGAINST LITTER... West Baton Rouge leaders gathered on April 11 to show their support for keeping West Baton Rouge beautiful by supporting the Leaders Against Litter event. Local officials, business and community leaders, using gold litter grabbers, joined Keep West Baton Rouge Beautiful in collecting various forms of litter to help beautify the parish. They also signed the Leaders Against Litter pledge to commit NEW ROAD AROUND SCHOOL… West Baton Rouge Parish crews have begun work to a cleaner community and state. The event was sponsored by Keep West Baton Rouge on a road to provide access behind Cohn Elementary School near Williams and Lee Park. The Beautiful, Volunteer Louisiana, Keep Louisiana Beautiful, and the Office of the Lieutenant parish has relocated a fence, removed trees, done drainage work, and is putting down a limestone Governor. In the photo above, leaders gather with their litter grabbers in hand. base for the road. The asphalt road is being bidded out as part of its 2014 road overlay program. The photo above shows a parish crew doing dirt work to prepare for the limestone. The road will provide better access to the park and school.

DRAINAGE PROJECTS ACROSS THE PARISH West Baton Rouge maintenance crews have numerous projects on tap this year to improve drainage throughout the parish. In the photo at right, trees are cleared for the new Lobdell Diversion Canal. Construction of this canal will begin this summer and will Quilters in the Senior Spirit program show off one of their creations. help drain the northern part of the parish and old Mississippi River bridge area, Senior Spirit takes off in WBR along with Lobdell and west of La. Hwy. 415 If you live in West Baton Rouge Par- quilting, aerobics, and bridge to bi- in the Rosedale Road/Rebelle Lane area. ish and are 50 or older, then West Baton monthly programs like pokeno, bouree, The canal, being constructed at a cost of Rouge Senior Spirit has a host of op- and dominoes,” explained Babin. Each $600,000, will extend into the Intracoastal portunities for you to have fun and meet month there are group pot luck, lunch and Waterway. Work is also planned on Coulee other residents. dinner opportunities, with travel as a key Canal, which runs south from the parish A program for seniors offered by the component, explained Landry. line to Choctaw Road, and the Parish West Baton Rouge Parks and Recreation “We’ve had guest speakers, flower Canal, which is a major canal for all areas Department, West Baton Rouge Senior arranging classes, jewelry making south of the Intracoastal Waterway. Parish Spirit is five and a half years old. Since it classes, African Violet programs, Bunco Canal is being dredged for siltation. This was started in September 2009, the pro- parties, biking trips, and more,” she will improve the flow of drainage in the southern part of the parish. Canals and ditches on gram has grown to almost 400 members continued. both Treuil Road and Rougon Road are also being cleared of brush and dug out for improved and a full calendar of activities monthly. The April calendar included a WBR drainage. It is coordinated by its founders, Senior Spirit four-day trip to Austin, a day Lucy Landry and Babs Babin, both of trip to Pierre Part, in addition to other Brusly. “It started as a group of seniors activities and information on parish wide playing weekly bridge when Lucy had the computer classes at the WBR Parish Natural Gas & Water reminders! idea to offer something more for seniors Library and a cooking class at the WBR Bills are always due on the 15th of received. and it’s taken off from there,” explained Museum. Anatole Vincent, Director of WBR Parks “It has really taken off,” Babin said. each month. If the bill includes a late The following are ways to pay your and Recreation Department. The parish “We appreciate the WBR Parks and Rec- charge/penalty, that is your disconnect bill: notice. If you have a late charge/penalty, • Offices in Port Allen and in Brusly has provided them with a Senior Center reation Department for sponsoring the look on the bottom left of your bill for • Night depositories next to the drive at 235 Elaine Street in Brusly for some program. It is working well and is a won- the date that the previous balance must thru windows at both offices activities and other programs are held in derful thing for the parish.” The program be paid. If you aren’t sure whether you • Mail various locations. is free. For more information on events, have a previous balance, call the Utility • Bank draft at no charge to the “We do a wide variety of weekly call Babs Babin at 225-749-2518 or Lucy Department for verification at 225-336- customers on the 5th of each month activities such as hand and foot canasta, Landry at 225-749-2981. 2406. • Online payments through the parish If you have a disconnect notice, website for a fee Residents can help curb mosquitoes please do not pay on the parish website • Payments over the phone with credit after the disconnect date because it takes card for a fee The West Baton Rouge Mosquito Abatement Department is working to minimize at least two business days to process If your service is turned off, it will be the threat of mosquito borne disease in the parish. Following are ways individuals can online payments. During that time, you reconnected only after the bill is paid. help curb mosquito populations on their property: are still subject to be disconnected. If Once paid, a utility worker will unlock • Flush birdbaths and pet dishes with fresh water at least once weekly. your account is disconnected, the service your meter on weekdays, between the • Empty all containers of water at least once weekly. charge cannot be paid online. hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. If you are • Dispose of old tires. EIR, Inc. will take up to 5 tires 225-344-8298 If you pay “online” through your not home, the meter(s) will be unlocked • Keep drains, ditches, and culverts clean of weeds, grass clippings, and trash. bank, remember that banks use a third and you will have to turn on your own • Add sand or gravel to potted plant drip trays to absorb excess water. party payment center, and it takes 5 meter(s) yourself. If a utility worker is • Empty plastic wading pools at least once weekly. to 7 days once the money leaves your requested to return to the home to turn on • Do not let tarps or boat covers collect and hold water. account to get to the West Baton Rouge the meter(s) after business hours a $70 • Fill in, drain or treat all standing water on your property. Parish Utility Department. The account fee will be charged. For more information go to www.wbrcouncil.org under the departments tab or on will not be credited until the funds are Facebook/West Baton Rouge Mosquito Control. Vision WEST | April, 2014 | Page 3 West Baton Rouge Tourism Windy skies attract crowd to Kite Fest

Thousands of spectators and participants braved Island, New Jersey, Alabama, Florida, , Virginia The Advocate, EMCO Technologies, Extreme Inflatables, cool, inclement weather to take part in the 2014 Kite and Washington D.C. Kites of all shapes and sizes American Gateway Bank, Placid, Coastal Bridge Co., Fest Louisianè on April 4-6 in West Baton Rouge performed ballets over West Baton Rouge, as well as Lamar Advertising Company, ExxonMobil, 101.5 Parish. in indoor flying demonstrations in the Port Allen High WYNK, the Louisiana Office of Tourism and the West “We were disappointed by the weather for the School gymnasium. Baton Rouge Museum, Brand Energy Solutions, GSA weekend, but Saturday saw big crowds and everyone Drynn Oday of Baton Rouge won first place in Consulting Engineers Inc., Southern Packaging, Petrin enjoyed the windy weather and special activities held Saturday’s kite design competition. Other winners Corp. and Baton Rouge Beer Company. In addition, Stam that day,” said Sharon Stam, Executive Director of the included Katie Luckett, Prairieville, second place; thanked the West Baton Rouge Parks and Recreation West Baton Rouge Convention and Visitors Bureau Kaitlynn Martin, Tahoka, Texas, third place; and Jazmin Dept., the School Board, Sheriff’s Department, Parish (WBRCVB). Dominique, Port Allen, and Maeryn O’Day and Sarah Council and Fire Department for their assistance with the She estimates that about 13,000 attended the 10th Burleigh, Baton Rouge, honorable mention. event. annual event that drew kite flying teams from Rhode This year, the festival celebrated its milestone For more information about upcoming events, call anniversary with special activities, the WBRCVB at (225) 344-2920 or visit the website at including a reception at the West Baton www.westbatonrouge.net. Rouge Conference Center. WBR Parish President Riley Berthelot welcomed out-of-state teams, and honored sponsors, flyers, volunteers and everyone who has supported the event since its inception. A special anniversary poster by artist Craig Price of Walker, winner of a contest sponsored by American Gateway Bank, was unveiled at the reception. Anyone who would like to purchase the poster may do so at the Tourist Center for $10. In addition to the special edition poster, organizers recognized the 10th anniversary with a permanent Kite Fest Louisianè public exhibit that Come see the new Kite Fest Louisianè display at the West highlights its history. Kites dance in the skies over West Baton Rouge during Kite Baton Rouge Convention and Visitors Bureau. The display Stam credited the festival’s success largely to its Fest Louisianè on April 4-6. About 13,000 spectators turned out commemorates the 10 years of the festival’s history. volunteers and sponsors, including Entergy, WBRZ-TV, for the 10th Annual Kite Fest.

West Baton Rouge Assessor Enhanced website provides mapping solutions Imagine viewing your property from mapping solution with a new Pictometry the front, back and sides, virtually as imagery interface. Pictometry is the if you were on site, with the click of a name of a patented aerial image mouse on your home or office computer. process that utilizes low-flying airplanes Now, thanks to enhancements made to capture multi-dimensional images of to the West Baton Rouge Parish objects. Assessor’s website, you can do just that. “We needed an updated digital Deputy Assessor Chris Guerin mapping solution that not only looked explained after 12 years, the office current, but was also easy to use and decided it was time for a “new, cutting produced superior results,” Altazan edge technology to give service back notes. “Our goal to be transparent and to the residents of West Baton Rouge user-friendly helped us define what Parish.” Although the website has been we felt was the best possible mapping heavily utilized in providing assessment solution. By providing the public free data, archived reports, qualified sales, access to Pictometry imagery in an reporting forms and digital mapping and integrated solution, we feel we have imagery, Guerin says he and Assessor added value to the investment taxpayers Deputy Assessor Chris Guerin reviews the website enhancements that provide improved digital Barney “Frog” Altazan agreed last make in their public infrastructure.” mapping. December the popular digital mapping Guerin added the WBR Assessor’s capabilities that allow users to print maps day, seven days a week by utilizing the site could use fresh, state-of-the-art Office now has the only website in the as well as capture aerial images that can website.” technology. state with a public Pictometry interface, be downloaded or emailed. “The map He encourages the public to visit With assistance from Fenstermaker and is already fielding inquiries from printing options offered on the site are the website at www.wbrassessor.org. & Associates of Lafayette, a other entities interested in implementing much more user-friendly than what we As always, the Assessor’s office has an GIS(Geographic Information System) the process. had before,” Guerin says. “And still, for open-door policy and invites anyone with vendor, the Assessor’s Office now offers The website improvements also about $9,000 a year, we’re able to keep questions or concerns to contact the a user-friendly, high performance digital include enhanced and simplified printing our office open to the public 24 hours a office at (225) 344-6777.

Page 4 | Vision WEST | April, 2014 West Baton Rouge School System Other local Students of Year

In December, the WBR system also recognized 5th-grader Isabella Matthews, Local student a finalist 11, of Lukeville Upper Elementary School, and 12th-grader Margarite LaBorde, 18, of for state Student of Year Port Allen High School as district Students of the Year. Margarite is the daughter of Brusly Middle Brusly Middle Raymond LaBorde and Becky LaBorde. School student School newspaper, Isabella is the daughter of Charles Logan Berthelot First Assistant Matthews and Crystal Matthews. may only be 13 Editor and Editor- years old, but his in-Chief; and Isabella Matthews Margarite LaBorde resume is already Brusly Middle more impressive School Yearbook, than many people section editor. He three times his age. is also a member Logan was a finalist of National Junior in the Louisiana Beta Club, 4-H Finance official adds credentials Department of Club and Brusly Jared Gibbs, West Baton Rouge Parish Certified Louisiana School Business Official Education’s “Student Middle School School Board’s Supervisor of Business certification at a ceremony on April 4 in Lake of the Year” awards, Youth Legislature. Services, loves numbers. Charles. Logan Berthelot held on April 16. In 2011, Logan So in addition to managing “I can tell you this, “Logan is one of those young was an elementary finalist in the the district’s money matters, with Jared Gibbs as the people who you know is going to Louisiana Student of the Year he’s also been adding to his district’s chief financial make a mark on this world,” shares awards. He was the first Student financial knowledge. On Jan. officer, West Baton Rouge Charlotte Blanchard, West Baton of the Year from WBR Parish to 1, Gibbs earned a Certificate of taxpayers’ money is in Rouge School Board Supervisor of represent the region. “Along with Achievement from the Louisiana good hands,” comments Child Welfare and Attendance. She writing a novel when I become Association of School Business Superintendent David oversees the district’s selection older, I would also like to travel Officials for fulfilling “personal, Corona. committee to pick nominees based the world to visit different ethical and professional Gibbs says the on portfolios and oral interviews. civilizations, and perhaps run for requirements.” interest in finance is in The Louisiana Students presidency,” Logan states in his The Morganza native his blood. His grandfather of the Year program selects portfolio presentation. and University of Louisiana- was an accountant finalists from three categories That might not be far- Lafayette accounting graduate and his mother is a of students: Grade 5; Grade 8; fetched, according to Brusly has worked with the school bookkeeper. “I’ve always and Grade 12. They must have a Middle School Principal Callie district for three years. Prior liked numbers. I guess cumulative grade point average Kershaw. “Logan is absolutely to that, he served two years Supervisor of Business Services it runs in the family,” of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, and capable of doing all of those with the Pointe Coupee Parish Jared Gibbs displays his he adds. He plans on must exhibit leadership qualities, things. He would make a great School Board. Certificate of Achievement. pursuing his education activities, recognitions and service/ president,” she shares. “When The certificate represents by earning certification citizenship. he puts his mind to something, 45 hours of seminars, workshops and training, in three or four years as a Louisiana School This is no challenge for Logan, he accomplishes it.” He is the in addition to years of experience. Gibbs Board Administrator, which requires a few a 4.0 student. Among his many son of Donald Berthelot Jr. and was one of only six statewide to receive the more years of experience. leadership roles are: Brusly Middle Maria Berthelot. School track team, manager; SAFETY TOWN: Children learn real life safety tips Every day, children face danger, “It is truly a community project report an emergency by calling “911” and life-threatening fire in which a young girl whether from crossing the street or that was created with the support fire safety is taught as they travel through found herself after taking part in Safety playing with their toys. and cooperation of many businesses, the smoke house trailer and learn how to Town. By employing techniques she had West Baton Rouge officials want public and private agencies and civic crawl out of a fire. learned years earlier, was able to survive to equip them with information that organizations,” Ourso notes. The Superintendent David Corona by dropping to the floor and escaping the could save their lives. “Safety Town” school system has worked with the commends the program for helping children burning building. is a program for children that teaches community for about 20 years in deal with emergencies. “It’s a tremendous “With children being so vulnerable to a safety lessons using a realistic, child- offering kindergarteners the Safety program and has already saved at least variety of accidents, it is important to teach sized recreation of a town that is Town experience, Ourso says. Over one child’s life,” he says. He described a good safety practices and tips,” he adds. designed to provide complete hands- the years, thousands of children on education for children, according have learned gun safety, bike safety, to West Baton Rouge Parish Schools fire safety, poison and emergency Elementary Supervisor Cindy Ourso. preparedness. It is part of a national program The students drive their “big founded in 1937 by an Ohio wheels” around the streets of the West Baton policeman as a traffic safety miniature Safety Town, complete Rouge education program. Through the with city buildings, railroad crossings, kindergarteners years, it was expanded and updated stop signs and traffic lights. They are watch a puppet as a comprehensive education issued tickets for traffic violations show during program. Ourso says it is successful and receive rewards for good safety Safety Town locally because of the support practices. This year, each was given activities. of entities like the West Baton a bike helmet donated by Dow Rouge Parish Office of Emergency Chemical Company. Preparedness, which spearheaded Local law enforcement the annual event on March 27-April 4 representatives also teach the at Addis VFW Hall. kindergarteners how to correctly

Vision WEST | April, 2014 | Page 5 City of Port Allen City gets serious about clean-up, blight Residents may have noticed that the City of Port Allen has been in the “clean-up” mode in the last two months, sprucing up landscaping at the Old Ferry Landing Park/ riverfront and on major thoroughfares and repairing and painting. A letter to our residents The work has included pruning back the suckers and saplings at the base of trees Dear friends, on city rights of way, repairing broken electrical boxes, repairing broken sections of curbs, cleaning up trash in drainage areas, changing out a torn American flag at the Thank you for electing me to lead the City of Port Allen. I am humbled by Depot and repairing a trip hazard. your support and am committed to bringing our community together and The city is also landscaping and re-planting flowers and shrubs in planters to moving Port Allen forward. Our first step is for the beautify the city. The areas of focus include Court Street, La. Hwy. 1 and the Old Ferry City Council and I to come together as leaders Landing Park/Riverfront. “Many of the projects are being done by city crews to minimize and show the community that we have a vision of cost,” noted Interim Mayor Lynn Robertson in late March. “We had a professional tree unity for our city. company come in and trim the trees, and re-painting the Depot is underway.” I want to focus on bringing back both a positive In addition, the city has sent out 68 letters ordering property owners to remove atmosphere and festivals that pull the community dilapidated cars from their property. Newly elected Mayor Richard Lee III supports the together, while also helping residents see that we clean-up activities, and said he will continue them under his new administration. are not a divided city, but instead One Port Allen. Once we begin to take a positive step into making Port Allen attractive, business and economic development will follow. Other immediate goals are to pursue the annexation that has been re-started by Interim Mayor Lynn Robertson, and to begin developing Mayor Richard Lee III positive and cooperative relationships with the other mayors and parish officials of West Baton Rouge. I want to thank Mayor Robertson for her service to our city at a very critical time. Her leadership in a short period of time has started us on the road to positive change. As mayor, my door is open to you and I look forward to working with everyone to make Port Allen a great city.

Sincerely, Mayor Richard Lee III

The Depot is getting renewed with a fresh coat of paint, and will become the office of the city inspector. West Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office Sheriff’s Drug Interdiction Program among top in country The West Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office cost between $10,000.00 and $14,000.00, Drug Interdiction Unit is among the top depending on the level of training. These Major Zach Simmers programs of its kind in the United States. dogs are trained to meet nationally accepted and Deputy Chris Green Members of this department have been standards for K-9s in narcotics detection and with 550 pounds of recognized by the U.S. Drug Enforcement criminal apprehension. Before a deputy can marijuana confiscated Administration as “Subject Matter Experts” take a new dog on the road, they must train from a huge tire (seen in and by other agencies for their expertise. together for at least two months so that the background) of a vehicle Members of this unit travel around the deputy and the dog learn each other’s habits stopped on I-10 in 2010. United States training other interdiction units, and develop a bond. Just a few months ago, as well as training members of the WBR The members of this unit have over the Drug Interdiction Sheriff’s Office uniform patrol deputies. 4,000 hours of training in various aspects Unit confiscated 20 kilos While this is impressive, Major Zachary of criminal patrol, court testimony, search of cocaine valued at $2 Simmers says that the highest form of and seizure, new concealment techniques, million in another I-10 compliment is stopping a smuggler and interviewing techniques, understanding body stop. finding a map with West Baton Rouge clearly language, defensive tactics, survival Spanish, marked with the notation to avoid the parish report writing and a basic understanding of all together. automobile structure, just to name a few. The team includes Simmers, Deputies Each deputy has a specially equipped Chris Green, Donald Dawsey and James vehicle that can be either marked or un- Woody, along with their three K-9 dogs. marked. However, each vehicle has a In the five years that this unit has been compartment for their K-9 to ride in with an working interstate patrol they have arrested automatic opening door that can be operated numerous individuals for crimes of murder, remotely by the deputy should he need the armed robbery as well as various narcotics K-9’s assistance. trafficking offenses. They have also seized In addition the vehicles have computer millions of dollars worth of illegal narcotics, systems for interface with various local, state including more than 25,000 pounds of and federal law enforcement databases, marijuana, 200 pounds of cocaine, 500 and video recording systems for capturing pounds of synthetic marijuana and a kilo of audio and video each time a deputy interacts heroin. with the public. This is a permanent record The deputies work together in teams of the entire event. These are just some of on varying shifts and each deputy has the tools of the profession used by these Major Zach Simmers and a highly trained K-9 dog. The dogs are deputies in their day-to-day crime fighting Deputy Chris Green with Belgian Malinois, a breed of Shepherd, that efforts. Green’s K-9.

Page 6 | Vision WEST | April, 2014 Town of Brusly Brusly Fire Department gets grilling in inspection

The Brusly Fire Department has just completed the arduous grading inspection that determines the fire suppression rating for the town. This inspection is done every five years, and takes months of preparation, said Assistant Fire Chief Kenny Hunts. The rating is a critical factor that property insurance companies use to determine homeowner and commercial property insurance costs. Ratings range from the best rating of 1 to the worst rating of 10. “We are grilled on all aspects of fire protection and response, and without our volunteer firefighters we wouldn’t have a 3 rating,” Hunts said. In the inspection, the department must provide stacks of folders documenting required training, additional firefighter certifications, records on building inspections, fire prevention programs and other activities. The inspectors also require firefighters to test fire hose, fire hydrant and tanker flow rates, and show that all equipment is working properly. In addition, the paid firefighters session.” workers on duty 24 hours has provided “The inspection is all about our ability are required to have an average of 220 Hunts said the rating is based on the fire department with an excellent to respond to a fire,” Hunts said. “We have hours of training per year, and the town’s three categories – water availability, communications system. “Our part is 384 fire hydrants and we flush them, check 20 volunteer firefighters are required communications and fire. Since the town making sure we’re as prepared as we flow and lubricate them twice a year so to have 145 hours of training. “This is is now on the parish water system and possibly can be to respond to fires, and they have no stagnant water,” Hunts said. a big commitment by our volunteers,” its new well, it has increased its water we do everything we can to prevent “We know this is a little bit of a burden on Hunts noted. “We train twice a month for capacity. In addition, the parish’s central them,” he said. “We work every day to residents when we flush hydrants, but it is about three hours during each training 911 communications system with three make sure we’re prepared.” a fire safety measure.”

Town of Addis Mayor: Addis appeals to business, residents

With more than a year in office explains. “There will be a no solicitation La Petite Maison les Learning Center town’s centennial anniversary there. He behind him, Addis Mayor David Toups is list for citizens if they do not want opened in February on Belle Vale Drive is recruiting those who are interested to still enjoying his job and urges others to door-to-door sales people visiting their at Sugar Mill, Wham Bam Ice also began contact him and become a member of get involved. residences.” operations recently, and there are plans the planning committee. “It’s all about the sense of The ordinance attempts to balance for at least one other new business to “I not only want those who are community. That’s what draws people to the First Amendment rights of the open within a few months. familiar with the history to get involved, this area,” he said recently. To strengthen solicitors with the “privacy, safety, health but the young people too. They have NEW WEBSITE: Anyone who that sense of community among its and welfare” of Addis residents. a different perspective and their views would like more information on Addis’ nearly 4,000 citizens, Toups is working According to the ordinance, solicitors are as important as those of the older demographics, the school system, local on a number of goals to improve the (both commercial and noncommercial) citizens,” he added. government, resources, upcoming events quality of life in Addis. must get a permit from Town Hall. Those who would like to assist the or history, should visit the town’s website, Likewise, anyone who doesn’t want the committee are asked to call Town Hall CLEAN-UP TIME: Because a good Toups said. sales calls can register with Town Hall impression is important to business at 687-4844 or visit the website at www. by calling 225-687-4844. The town will As an example, he suggested that owners or residents who might be addis.la.org for more information. maintain a list of all residential addresses residents can learn more about the considering relocating, he has asked with such requests. Solicitors are also everyone to “clean up” along the town’s prohibited from entering or remaining main corridor, . on any private residence that has a “No Practicing what he preaches, he recently Trespassing” or “No Solicitation” sign. joined other local officials in the “Leaders In addition to prohibiting sales Against Litter” campaign. calls, the ordinance limits the hours of PROTECTING RESIDENTS door-to-door solicitation from 9 a.m. to 5 PRIVACY: In an effort to protect citizens’ p.m. daily. The ordinance applies to all privacy, Toups introduced a “Home activities that are religious, charitable or Solicitation” ordinance at the April City political in nature and all solicitation of Council meeting. It will be up for final newspaper or magazine subscriptions. approval at the May meeting. NEW BUSINESSES: Business “It is designed to toughen the criteria people are learning that Addis is a great La Petite Maison les Learning Center opened its doors in Addis in February to provide care for to gain a home solicitation permit,” he place to live and work, Toups noted. infants through 4-year-olds.

Addis Mayor & Town Council - 1st Wednesday of each month - Town Hall Civic League of Addis - 2nd Monday of each month - Town Hall Addis Planning & Zoning - 3rd Tuesday of each month - Town Hall Fire Sub-district #1 - Last Tuesday of each month - Fire Station #3 Addis Historical Society - 2nd Tuesday of each month - Addis Museum

Vision WEST | April, 2014 | Page 7 P

A L I R C IS N H COU Chamber of Commerce 2014 Legislative Session: CONTACT WBR Chamber’s Annual OUR DELEGATION! Banquet a huge success! The old adage: “There’s strength in numbers” really does apply when the Congratulations and recognition were given to WBR Parish Superintendent David legislators are in session! Here is a listing of our legislators. Contact them – they Corona, who received the Pride of West Baton Rouge award and Yvonne Terrance depend on all of us to let them know what bills effect, help or harm our businesses! with American Gateway Bank, who was named the Chamber Volunteer of the Year at Sen. Troy Brown District 2: Napoleonville [email protected] the WBR Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Banquet. Sen. Rick Ward District 17: Port Allen [email protected] A silent auction and social hour were enjoyed by all before Chamber members Rep. Regina Barrow District 29: Baton Rouge [email protected] and guests were served a delicious meal prepared by Cashio’s 360 Catering. The Rep. Karen St. Germain District 60: Plaquemine [email protected] presenting sponsor was The Dow Chemical Company, and the gold sponsors Rep. Major Thibaut District 18: New Roads [email protected] included Allied Waste Service of Baton Rouge, American Gateway Bank, Dow Louisiana Federal Credit Union, Lofton Staffing & Security Services, Placid Refining Company, LLC, and Turner Industries Group, LLC. Secretary of State Tom Schedler swore in the 2014 Chamber officers and board and LABI’s President Stephen Waguespack was the keynote speaker.

2014 WBR Chamber Board of Directors 2014 Pride of WBR winner David Corona, WBR School Superintendent

WELCOME TO THE PARISH The Jambalaya Shoppe 245 N Alexander Ave., Port Allen 2014 Chamber Volunteer of the Year Yvonne Terrance Scenes from the banquet UPCOMING CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS: RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED! 255/383-3140 or [email protected]

Jamie Setze Executive Director CRPC: Captial Region Planning Commission DID YOU KNOW? Let’s talk La. 1 traffic! Wednesday, April 30, Addis Community Center The West Baton Rouge Chamber’s mission is to be the voice of business while promoting growth and a high quality of life in West Baton Rouge Parish. The Chamber 7520 Hwy. 1 South, Addis works on economic development daily to help local businesses expand their existing businesses and works with prospects interested in bringing or re-locating their 11:30 AM: Registration/Networking businesses to WBR Parish. WBR has an Louisiana Economic Development certified 12 Noon: Program Begins site located in Port Allen, which means it is shovel ready for an industry/business looking to locate here.

Working to bring Tom Schedler economic Secretary of State development Election Reform projects to WBR Wednesday, May 28, Addis Community Center are, from 7520 Hwy. 1 South, Addis left, Parish President Riley Berthelot, Brusly Mayor Joey Normand, Interim Port Allen Mayor Lynn Robertson, 11:30 AM: Registration/Networking WBR Chamber Board Chairman Juan Carrillo, WBR Chamber Executive Director Kathy Stuart, 12 Noon: Program Begins Addis Mayor David Toups, and Port of Greater Baton Rouge Director Jay Hardman.

Page 8 | Vision WEST | April, 2014